Cloud Computing – Data Confidentiality and Interoperability Challenges

Abstract

Interoperability, which brings major benefits for enterprise and science, is key for the pervasive adoption of grids and clouds. The lack of interoperability has impeded broader adoption and the reason, enterprise argues, why the grids have not performed at expected levels. Interoperability between existing grids and clouds is of primary importance for the EU. This chapter focuses on the guiding principles of interoperability and openness for the development of cloud computing, as they have been for the Internet so far. Therefore, global standardization efforts are emphasized in this chapter and seen as a key priority. We look at the importance of interoperability and what standardization efforts are taking place surrounding cloud computing, considering how enterprises do not wish to tie their applications to specific providers’ remote infrastructure – particularly if there is proprietary technology deployed. Nevertheless, it is still considered early in the market’s development for formal standardization of many aspects of cloud computing – except maybe in the area of virtualization technology – but industry leaders recognize the importance of interoperability. The chapter delivers a snapshot of the impact that cloud computing is making on the European market and the influence of EU regulation in listing the Opportunities for Europe. The concluding remarks and considerations provide a look at the future market drivers and the key challenges of interoperability and data confidentiality.